20 Ways Canada Is Becoming More Self-Sufficient—and Stronger for It

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Canada is on a transformational journey towards higher self-sufficiency and a stronger economy, infrastructure, and sustainability. The country is finally freeing itself from foreign resources through the modernization of the national manufacturing industry, the application of clean energy, the guarantee of food security, and the use of cutting-edge technology. These are 20 ways Canada is becoming more self-sufficient and stronger:

Expanding Domestic Manufacturing

Between 1988 and 1994, Canada lost 334,000 manufacturing jobs, 17% of pre-CUFTA manufacturing employment. Appreciating the exposure of depending greatly on foreign supply chains, Canada has since sought to rejuvenate its home-grown manufacturing base. Initiatives like the Strategic Innovation Fund and increased investments to strengthen production capacity, decrease foreign dependency on products, and generate employment. Particularly, the auto sector has returned with a 15% increase in the production of electric vehicles (EVs) in the last year. This move not only boosts the economy but also supports ecological objectives.

Boosting Renewable Energy Production

Canada’s sustainability focus is seen in its energy mix, which comprises 67% renewable energy sources. Hydroelectric power is the leading energy source, accounting for 59.6% of the energy, with wind and solar energy growing in the country. The government has a set goal to save 40-45% of greenhouse gas emissions under the 2005 levels by 2030 with high resolve. It has invested about CAD 15 billion in renewable energy projects to increase renewable energy production. These steps have led to healthier ecosystems and made Canada a leader in green technology.

Investing in Vertical Farming

To overcome the difficulties in traditional farming, Canada started using vertical farming. It is a type of agriculture that involves crop growth in stacked layers and strategies that utilize up to 95% less water and reduce the need for pesticides. The vertical farming market in Canada is expected to grow to a value of CAD 1.8 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24%. These farming methods will help increase agricultural production volume, reduce the need for food transportation, lower the country’s carbon footprint, and increase self-sufficiency measures.

Strengthening Food Security Initiatives

As the country faces global supply chain disruptions and works towards self-sufficiency, food security has become a priority for Canada. The government launched the Food Policy for Canada, a CAD 134 million initiative to ensure all Canadians have access to safe, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food. Programs under this policy support local food infrastructure, community-based projects, and initiatives to reduce food waste, bolster domestic food production and distribution, and ensure resilience against future challenges.

Increasing Critical Mineral Mining

The global demand for technology and renewable energy solutions is rising along with the demand for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel. Canada is rich in these resources, has identified 31 critical minerals essential for economic security, and has introduced the Critical Minerals Strategy to position Canada as a leading supplier of these vital materials. Introducing strategies that enhance extraction and processing capabilities will enable the country to reduce reliance on imports and increase support for the transition to green technologies.

Advancing Green Hydrogen Projects

Green hydrogen is emerging as a cornerstone of Canada’s clean energy future. The federal government has invested about CAD 1.5 billion to develop green hydrogen projects to produce 5 million metric tons annually by 2030. Provinces such as Alberta and Quebec are leading the charge, with Alberta’s Industrial Heartland developing a world-scale hydrogen hub expected to generate over 100,000 jobs. These projects reduce carbon production in sectors like transportation and industry, contribute to emission reduction targets, and help position Canada as a global leader in hydrogen technology.

Enhancing Public Transportation Networks

The Government of Canada has pledged CAD 14.9 billion over eight years to enhance public transit systems nationwide. This funding supports projects like the expansion of Toronto’s subway lines and the development of Montreal’s Réseau express métropolitain (REM), a 67-kilometer light rail network. Investments in public transportation are crucial to reducing urban congestion and lowering carbon emissions. They have helped improve public transit, provide efficient travel options, and contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing reliance on personal vehicles.

Supporting Local Entrepreneurs and Startups

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of Canada’s economy, comprising 98% of all businesses. These enterprises witness strong local support, and many rely on local resources to increase their reliance within the country. The Canadian government even introduced the Innovation and Skills Plan to support startups and scale-ups and foster innovation and economic growth with lower dependency on other countries.  

Developing Indigenous-Led Energy Projects

Indigenous communities across Canada are increasingly leading renewable energy initiatives, merging traditional ecological knowledge with modern technology. The federal government announced several Indigenous-led projects that aim to conserve, restore, and enhance land management of wetlands, peatlands, and grasslands. These projects will help store and capture carbon, benefiting biodiversity, climate resiliency, and human well-being while promoting environmental sustainability and self-sufficiency within Indigenous communities.

Expanding 5G and Digital Infrastructure

Canada is enhancing its digital infrastructure to support the deployment of 5G networks and increase self-sufficiency within the country. To do so, the government allocated significant funding to ensure nationwide coverage to connect 98% of Canadians to high-speed internet by 2026. This expansion will support telecommunications industry projects that contribute billions of revenue to the Canadian economy and boost advancements made in telemedicine, smart cities, and autonomous vehicles.

Strengthening Cybersecurity Measures

Cybersecurity has become crucial in the modern world with the increased adoption of digitalization. To keep up with cybersecurity needs, the country introduced the Cyber Security Strategy, backed by a CAD 507 million investment over five years, to protect critical infrastructure and personal data. The strategy includes establishing the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security and enhancing collaboration between government agencies and the private sector. These measures protect citizens from emerging threats and ensure the country’s digital economy resilience.

Growing the Canadian Space Industry

Canada’s space industry is experiencing significant growth and driving technological innovation while inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers. To ensure continued growth, the Canadian Space Agency has increased investments in satellite technology and space exploration to position the country as a key player in the global space sector. Canada is also developing the Canadarm3 for the Lunar Gateway to prove its expertise in robotic systems.

Promoting Sustainable Forestry Practices

Canada’s vast forests play an important role in creating self-sufficiency. They are crucial to environmental and economic well-being and have encouraged sustainable forestry practices, with over 166 million hectares certified to third-party sustainability standards. Introducing these practices has helped balance timber production with conservation, ensuring forest health for future generations. The forestry sector employs approximately 211,000 Canadians and contributes CAD 23.7 billion to the GDP. Sustainable management practices also support biodiversity and help mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon.

Increasing Investment in AI and Automation

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation are transforming industries worldwide, and Canada is at the forefront of this revolution. The Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, launched in 2017 with a CAD 125 million investment, has been renewed with an additional CAD 443.8 million over 10 years. This funding supports research, talent development, and commercialization of AI technologies to ensure that the AI sector in Canada can become self-sufficient and witness extensive growth. Canada’s AI sector is projected to contribute up to CAD 15.7 billion by 2030, enhancing productivity and creating high-skilled jobs.

Encouraging Regional Tourism Growth

Canada’s diverse landscapes and cultures make it a great tourist destination and a thriving tourism sector. The government launched the Tourism Relief Fund, allocating CAD 500 million to support local initiatives and boost regional tourism in several parts of the country. There have also been increased efforts to promote Indigenous tourism, which offers unique cultural experiences and supports community economies. Introducing these initiatives will be essential in ensuring the even distribution of tourism benefits across regions while fostering economic resilience and a self-sufficient tourism sector.

Enhancing Water Conservation Strategies

Water is one of the most precious resources on Earth. Canada has introduced and implemented different strategies to ensure sustainable water use, like the Canada Water Agency, which aims to protect and manage freshwater resources. Other initiatives include modernizing water infrastructure, promoting efficient agricultural practices, and restoring wetlands in many parts of the country. These efforts aim to safeguard water quality and availability for future generations.

Reducing Dependence on Foreign Oil

Canada is working to decrease its reliance on foreign oil through programs that invest in domestic energy sources and renewable alternatives. Programs like the Trans Mountain Pipeline expansion will help increase oil transport capacity and energy security. The country has also witnessed a growth in biofuel production, which reached 3 billion liters in 2023. These programs provide sustainable energy options and balance economic interests with environmental commitments.

Supporting Circular Economy Initiatives

Canada is embracing a circular economy to reduce waste and maximize resource efficiency. The federal government has committed CAD 24.8 million toward circular economy projects under the Zero Plastic Waste Initiative, targeting manufacturing, construction, and retail industries. Major cities like Vancouver and Toronto have implemented robust recycling and waste diversion programs, with Vancouver aiming to reduce landfill waste by 50% by 2030. Adopting the circular economy model promotes reusing, recycling, and repurposing materials, reducing reliance on raw materials and lowering environmental impacts.

Expanding Domestic Pharmaceutical Production

Canada has increased investments in domestic drug manufacturing to reduce dependence on foreign pharmaceutical supply chains. The government allocated CAD 1.5 billion through the Strategic Innovation Fund to support life sciences and vaccine production. Companies like Moderna and Sanofi are setting up manufacturing plants in Quebec and Ontario to ensure a steady domestic supply of essential medicines and increase self-sufficiency in the area. Canada’s pharmaceutical industry currently contributes over CAD 15 billion to the national economy and employs approximately 31,000 people. Strengthening local production reduces the risk of shortages and enhances healthcare resilience.

Strengthening Trade Agreements with Diverse Partners

Canada is diversifying its trade relationships to build economic resilience and reduce dependence on any single market. The country has signed the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), expanding access to high-value global markets and significantly contributing to the economy. These agreements foster economic growth, open opportunities for Canadian businesses, and ensure supply chain stability in critical sectors like agriculture, technology, and energy.

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